Goblin Valley State Park: A First Time Visitor Guide
Goblin Valley State Park, located in southern Utah, is a surreal and otherworldly destination known for its unique rock formations that resemble goblins, mushrooms, and other whimsical shapes. This hidden gem is located between the better-known national parks like Arches and Canyonlands, offers a unique opportunity for exploration, photography, and adventure. If you’re visiting Goblin Valley State Park for the first time, this guide will help you make the most of your experience.
Basic info:
- Name: Goblin Valley State Park
- Location: Utah
- Fee: $20 per car
- Things to do: Hiking, stargazing, canyoneering and more
- Nearest town: Moab (see hotel deals)
Overview:
Goblin Valley State Park is a small but enchanting park, covering about 3,600 acres. The park’s main draw is its eerie and fascinating landscape, which was formed over millions of years through erosion of soft sandstone, leaving behind thousands of hoodoos (goblin-shaped rock formations). These formations make for a striking and otherworldly environment, perfect for exploring, hiking, and photographing. Unlike some of Utah’s other famous parks, Goblin Valley remains relatively uncrowded, giving visitors a more intimate experience with nature.
Photos:
Best Times to Visit:
Pretty much any season except summer offer the most pleasant weather, with cooler temperatures and clear skies. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), while winters can be cold and windy but more tolerable than the hot weather for most.
Nearest Towns And Accomodations:
- The closest town is Green River, which offers lodging, dining, and basic amenities. See accomodation listings.
- The better but further option is Moab, a larger tourist hub, is farther but provides more services and accommodations. See hotel deals.
Things to do:
While Goblin Valley is relatively small compared to Utah’s national parks, there’s plenty to see and do for visitors who want to immerse themselves in the park’s unique landscape. Here are some of the most popular options:
Hiking: The park offers several trails, but much of the valley is open to free-roaming exploration, allowing visitors to wander among the goblins. Trails are generally easy and short, making them perfect for families and beginner hikers. Some notable trails include:
- Goblin’s Lair: This 1.5 mile hike leads to a large cavern known as the Goblin’s Lair. The trailhead starts at the end of the third valley in the main goblin area. The terrain is mostly flat, but the final descent into the lair involves a bit of scrambling over rocks. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by towering rock walls and cool shade, a perfect respite from the sun.
- The Three Sisters: This short 0.5 mile trail takes you to one of the most famous rock formations in the park, the Three Sisters, a trio of tall hoodoos standing together. It’s a great photo opportunity and an easy walk from the parking area.
- Valley of Goblins: The main attraction of the park is the Valley of Goblins, a large area where you can roam freely among hundreds of goblin-shaped hoodoos. There’s no designated trail here, so visitors are encouraged to explore at their own pace. It’s a fantastic area for kids, as they can climb on the rocks and discover hidden nooks and crannies among the formations.
Photography: Goblin Valley is a photographer’s dream, with its unusual rock formations and dramatic desert lighting. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography, as the low-angle light creates stunning shadows and enhances the red and orange hues of the rocks. The park’s clear skies also make it a great place for night photography and stargazing.
Mountain Biking: For those looking for a bit more adventure, the park has a few biking trails, including the Wild Horse Mesa Mountain Biking Trail. This 7.5-mile loop offers moderate terrain with beautiful views of the valley below. It’s a great way to explore more of the park and see areas that might not be accessible by foot.
Stargazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Goblin Valley is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in Utah for stargazing. On clear nights, you’ll be able to see the Milky Way, planets, and countless stars with incredible clarity. The park often hosts stargazing events, especially during meteor showers, so check the park’s event calendar if you’re visiting at night.
Canyoneering (special tour): Goblin Valley has special events like canyoneering that visitors can participate in. Here’s the main tour that does it which has you enter one of the caves through the top by rope, a 5 star rated experience by most users.
Camping:
Camping at Goblin Valley allows visitors to fully experience the park’s unique atmosphere, especially during the cooler evenings when the rocks take on a different hue, and the night sky opens up.
- Goblin Valley Campground: The park has a developed campground with 24 sites and two yurts available for rent. The campsites are spacious and include picnic tables, fire pits, and shaded shelters. Restrooms with running water and showers are available as well. Sites can be reserved in advance, and it’s recommended to book early during peak seasons, as the campground fills up quickly.
- Yurts: For a more comfortable camping experience, consider staying in one of the park’s yurts. These round, canvas-covered structures come equipped with beds, a table, and a wood stove, offering a unique and cozy way to stay close to nature. Each yurt also has a private picnic area and fire ring. See reviews/recommendations.
- Backcountry Camping: For those looking for a more remote experience, backcountry camping is permitted in certain areas of the park. You must register with the park ranger before venturing into the backcountry, and it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the delicate desert environment.
Things to Bring:
- Water: The desert environment is dry and hot, especially in the summer months, so bring plenty of water. The park has limited water facilities, so be sure to have enough for hiking and camping.
- Sun Protection: There’s very little shade in Goblin Valley, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Long sleeves and lightweight clothing are also recommended to avoid sunburn.
- Sturdy Footwear: The rocky terrain can be uneven, so wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots with good grip, especially if you plan on scrambling over rocks.
- Camera: With such unique landscapes, you’ll want to capture the beauty of Goblin Valley. Be sure to bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage for photos.
Gear recommendations:
- Best rated hiking shoes for day hikes (men/women sizes available)
- Best rated hiking backpack for day hikes
- Best rated hiking pole for day hikes
Last Things to Know:
Although it’s overshadowed by Utah’s Mighty 5 Parks, Goblin Valley State Park is a true hidden gem in Utah’s desert landscape, offering visitors an otherworldly experience among its unique rock formations. Whether you’re hiking through the Valley of Goblins, camping under the stars, or photographing the stunning scenery, the park provides a memorable adventure for first-time visitors. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, Goblin Valley will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Utah’s natural wonders.
